The decision follows a disappointing 2025 campaign in which the Buccaneers, who opened 6-2, unraveled down the stretch and watched the NFC South drift away as the Carolina Panthers claimed the division and a playoff berth. While injuries were a factor, the offense struggled even as health improved, underscoring the need for a clearer, more adaptable approach.
Robinson arrives from the Atlanta Falcons, where he served as offensive coordinator the past two seasons, after spending five years with the Los Angeles Rams. The former Rams liaison briefly crossed paths with Baker Mayfield during a 2022 stint with Los Angeles, a connection that Mayfield says helped set the stage for their reunion in Tampa Bay.
Speaking on The Ronde Barber Show, Mayfield said the relationship has already shown him what he wants in a coach: “It’s been great. I already had a respect for him in terms of the football aspect, but not knowing how he would be as a coach. Real laid back, but he’s got a fire within him … These are the kind of coaches I want to be around, that are truly gonna adapt to the personnel, to what the guy’s strengths are, and go from there.”
The Buccaneers still boast a talented offensive lineup, led by Mayfield at quarterback and a strong pass-protection unit when healthy. They also feature a receiving corps anchored by Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, with playmakers Emeka Egbuka and Jalen McMillan to push for a bigger role, and a backfield that includes Bucky Irving, Rachaad White, and Sean Tucker. If Robinson can align those pieces with a flexible scheme, Tampa Bay could see a meaningful offensive resurgence.
Looking ahead to 2026, the storyline centers on whether Robinson’s system and Mayfield’s continued development can rekindle the Bucs’ offense. Front-office decisions on depth-chart tweaks may follow as the team aims to maximize their talent and bounce back from a season that fell short of expectations. With a coach known for adaptability and a quarterback eager to work within that framework, there is cautious optimism for a renewed offensive identity in Tampa Bay.
